University of Iowa leaders will help kick off construction of the new UI Institute for Orthopaedics, Sports Medicine, and Rehabilitation during a ceremonial groundbreaking event August 26 at the site near the University of Iowa Athletics Hall of Fame on Mormon Trek Boulevard, Iowa City.

Once completed in fall of 2009, the $5.9 million facility will help meet the expanding needs of Iowans for orthopedics, sports medicine, imaging, and rehabilitation services in an accessible, state-of-the-art setting. It will also enhance the UI’s educational and research missions.

“As the population of the state ages, so will our need to emphasize wellness and help Iowans remain as active as possible,” said Joseph Buckwalter, MD, professor and head of the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery. “The UI Institute for Orthopaedics, Sports, and Rehabilitation will play a key role in helping to keep all of our citizens in communities across our state as healthy as they can for as long as they can.”

The 26,000 square-foot building will include 16 examination and four treatment rooms. More than 5,100 square feet will be devoted to rehabilitation services, including a hydrotherapy pool. In addition, the facility will house other orthopaedic subspecialty clinics devoted to treating disorders of the hand, shoulder, foot, and ankle. The facility will also boast a full array of imaging technology, including X-ray and MRI, that will permit patients to have their needs met under one roof.

The institute will provide expertise in athletic medicine, injury management, prevention, and rehabilitation from orthopaedic surgeons, family practitioners, pediatricians, internists, athletic trainers, physical therapists, and other performance specialists.

“All of our faculty and staff will have a special focus on sports medicine and will be able to help people stay active throughout all stages of life,” said Ned Amendola, MD, director of UI Sports Medicine. “While we are looking forward to meeting the needs of elite athletes, we will serve people from all walks of life, including older adults who want to maintain their mobility so they can remain active in all their daily endeavors.”

From Left:
Paul Rothman, MD, Dean or the Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine;
Gary Barta, UI Athletic Director; Doug True, UI VP for Finance;
Ned Amendola, MD, UI Sports Medicine Director;
Sally Mason, UI President; Jack Evans, State of Iowa, Board of Regent member;
Joseph Buckwalter, MD, Professor and Head Orthopaedics and Rehabillitaion;
Jean Robillard, MD, UI Vice President for Medical Affairs.

For more information:

Joseph Buckwalter, MD

Ned Amendola, MD

Department of Orthopaedic Surgery

UI Sports Medicine